Raiders in no rush to start rookie QB Fernando Mendoza after 2-0 start
The short version
- Raiders are 2-0 after beating the Dolphins and Chargers to open 2026.
- ESPN's Dan Graziano reports there is 'no rush' to start No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza.
- Kirk Cousins remains the starting quarterback while Mendoza develops.
- Tight end Brock Bowers could return in Week 3 against the Saints.
ESPN's Dan Graziano reports Las Vegas will take a patient approach with the No. 1 overall pick while the wins keep coming.
The Las Vegas Raiders have opened the 2026 season at 2-0, with victories over the Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Chargers. ESPN's Dan Graziano reports the team is in no hurry to turn the offense over to rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick.
Graziano wrote that whenever Mendoza takes over as the starter, the offense could improve further because of his mobility and stronger arm, but the team feels no urgency to make the change. He added that the strong start has given the Raiders additional time to bring Mendoza along until they are comfortable making him the starter.
The Raiders have won their first two games despite being without star tight end Brock Bowers, who could return in Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints. Veteran Kirk Cousins has held the starting quarterback job in the meantime.
Graziano suggested that a losing start might have put Mendoza in play earlier, but with the team winning, Las Vegas appears set to wait. Mendoza is still expected to start at some point this season, though it may not come until later in the year.
